2026 MADE Bike Show: English Cycles Lightweight Stainless Steel V3 Disc

This year's MADE show is in the rearview mirror, but we’re still reeling from seeing so many amazing bikes adorned in SILCA components, including the Protocol tire lineup. As usual, master builder Rob English’s bikes were the talk of the show among everyone obsessed with frame design. 

The former pro racer-turned-mechanical engineer approaches frame construction with an engineer's focus on load, weight, and ride feel, with a keen eye for aesthetics and component spec. His range is nearly unmatched these days and, amongst the variety of bikes he displayed at the show, this Stainless Steel V3 Disc was both visually and mechanically stunning. Weighing under 14 pounds, it makes a serious case for steel in a world dominated by carbon fiber.

The stainless frame is fillet-brazed using a mix of Reynolds 953 and Columbus XCR stainless steel tubing. Blending these two high-tensile metals lets English use thin-wall profiles without sacrificing stiffness or durability. Beyond the structural advantages, stainless steel’s natural corrosion resistance means the frame can remain raw, saving the extra weight of a full paint job.

To reach a total weight of just 13.9 pounds with disc brakes, excessive hardware was minimized wherever possible. English did this by pairing an integrated steel seatmast with a minimalist Bjorn carbon seatmast topper. Cutting out the standard seat collar and telescoping post sheds weight, while the custom-butted mast adds built-in vertical compliance for a smooth ride. And at just 320 g per tire, the Protocol RCR helps keep the system weight to a minimum. 

This lightweight bike doesn’t just achieve a low number on the scale. It’s actually quite practical for long days in the saddle and will likely feel much more versatile than typical single-purpose ultralight climbing bikes. To support endurance rides, the frame features four bottle mounts and direct-mount bosses for a custom frame bag brazed right into the tubing. By eliminating straps and weight-penalizing hardware, English kept the setup clean, light, and functional. 

It’s a thoughtful showcase of how modern fabrication and smart integration can push custom steel builds to new levels.